The Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science · 1992 · 29 citations · 0 references
HumanitiesHistoryPolitical ScienceDemocratizationIslamic StudiesPolitical HistoryIslamIslamic HistoryIslamic Political ThoughtPolitical ExtremismIslamic MovementsIslamic PoliticsIslamic Social MovementsIslamist MovementsPolitical History Of IslamPopular TraditionSoviet Political System
Under the Soviet system, the rich intellectual life of Islam was eliminated, but a vigorous if unsophisticated popular tradition remained. After perestroika, an Islamic movement emerged as a form of political protest. But secular nationalism and ethnic conflict within and between the new republics also provided political dynamics. Throughout the time of change, Islam has served as a symbol of identity, a force for mobilization, and a pressure for democracy. But if successful politically, it faces economic challenges beyond its grasp.